Crispy and Savory Anchovy Stir-Fry (Myulchi Bokkeum)
Never Fail! Super Simple Anchovy Stir-Fry Recipe
As a parent raising children, I often think about how to ensure they get enough nutrients not just through supplements, but also through food. That’s why I’ve made a simple anchovy stir-fry, perfect as a staple side dish. This dish is not only great for kids but also enjoyed by people of all ages!
Main Ingredients- 300g dried anchovies (small, anchovy fry type is recommended over larger soup anchovies)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (adjust to your preference)
- 1.5 Tbsp cooking oil (for coating the anchovies)
- 3 Tbsp oligosaccharide (for shine and sweetness)
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame seeds (for nutty flavor! Optional)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for finishing aroma)
- 3 Tbsp water (for a softer texture)
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (adjust to your preference)
- 1.5 Tbsp cooking oil (for coating the anchovies)
- 3 Tbsp oligosaccharide (for shine and sweetness)
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame seeds (for nutty flavor! Optional)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for finishing aroma)
- 3 Tbsp water (for a softer texture)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, heat a pan over high heat and stir-fry the anchovies alone for about 3 minutes. This step helps to remove any fishy odor and allows you to pick out any other small seafood like shrimp or squid that might be mixed in, ensuring a cleaner taste.
Step 2
Place the stir-fried anchovies in a sieve and gently shake them. This will help remove any powdery residue or dust from the anchovies, making the final dish cleaner.
Step 3
In the clean pan, add 1.5 Tbsp of cooking oil and 2 Tbsp of minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little more! Cook the garlic, being careful not to burn it, until you can smell its fragrant aroma.
Step 4
Once the sharp scent of garlic mellows into a fragrant, savory aroma, add the prepared anchovies and lightly toss them with the garlic. The anchovies will get coated in the garlic-infused oil, making them even more delicious.
Step 5
Now, add 3 Tbsp of water and 3 Tbsp of oligosaccharide. Bring to a simmer over high heat and let it reduce. Oligosaccharide not only adds a glossy sheen and sweetness but also helps the sticky sauce cling well to the anchovies. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add more oligosaccharide.
Step 6
As the sauce starts to thicken and reduce, add 1.5 Tbsp of sesame seeds (optional) and 1 Tbsp of sesame oil. Gently mix everything together. And there you have it – delicious anchovy stir-fry! Although the description might seem long, after removing the fishy smell, it’s a very simple dish where you just toss everything together and stir-fry.
Step 7
Anchovies have their own natural saltiness, so you don’t need to add extra salt. If you prefer a very crispy and firm anchovy stir-fry, you can omit the water or use only a tiny amount. Conversely, if you like a softer texture, add a bit more water and let it simmer longer. This anchovy stir-fry is also a fantastic ingredient for simple kimbap or rice balls, making it easy and versatile for preparing children’s meals or snacks!
